Matthews game-winner misses: Wesley Matthews had a chance to help the Blazers sneak away with a win at the buzzer. But his corner three hit the back of the iron at the buzzer and the Blazers lost for the second time this season in New Orleans. Matthews had made four three-pointers in the fourth quarter — including a season-high six in the game — before the miss, and finished with 24 points.

Lillard injury scare: About 75 seconds in the second quarter, rookie point guard Damian Lillard drove hard into the lane for a shot and collided shoulder-first into Roger Mason. The NBA Rookie of the Year front-runner instantly grabbed his left shoulder and winced, as his teammates raced back on defense. Coach Terry Stotts called a timeout with 10:36 left and Lillard was pulled from the game for an examination by team trainer Jay Jensen on the Blazers' bench. Lillard winced in pain for more than a minute as he was examined by Jensen, but eventually the pain subsided. Lillard returned in the quarter and showed no lingering effects from the collision, finishing with 20 points and eight assists. After the game, Lillard said there was nothing to worry about. "It's good," he said of his shoulder. "I'm fine. It's just a little sore."

Leonard, Claver sit with ankle injuries: Rookie center Meyers Leonard and rookie forward Victor Claver did not play against the Hornets because of sprained ankles. But both players were making progress from the injuries they suffered Friday night against the San Antonio Spurs. Leonard, who rolled his left ankle, had healed enough to go through a light pregame warmup Sunday. He does not expect the injury to keep him out long. Claver's left ankle hadn't healed enough for him to go through any basketball activities, but he was walking without crutches. On Friday night, Claver wore a protective boot and needed crutches to walk. It's unclear how long his injury will sideline him.

The other rookie: There's no dispute that Lillard is the runway Rookie of the Year favorite, but another standout rookie had a standout game against the Blazers Sunday night. No. 1 overall draft pick Anthony Davis finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds. After a injury-riddled start to his NBA career, Davis is closing the season strong. Heading into Sunday night's game, Davis was averaging 16.7 points, 13.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in March.

(Poor) closing act: The Blazers inability to close out quarters proved costly against the Hornets. The Hornets closed the first quarter with a 9-0 run, closed the second quarter with a 7-2 run and closed the third quarter with an 11-4 run. The strong finishes proved to be the difference.